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Darn It Darla

A former child star fights for meaningful roles in Hollywood while battling her manipulative talent manager, exposing the dark comedy of the industry's control over artists.

  • Walid Chaya
    Director
    Driving Ms Saudi, Change of Season
  • Lavinia Roberts
    Writer
  • Walid Chaya
    Writer
  • Walid Chaya
    Producer
  • Walid Chaya
    Key Cast
    "Blake"
    The Blacklist: Redemption, Madam Secretary, Driving Ms. Saudi
  • Liz Venz
    Key Cast
    "Naveen"
    Twenties and Tiaras, The Guided, Super Soprano Bros.
  • Quincy Cho
    Key Cast
    "Linda"
    Shameless, Queenpins, The Mama Cho Show
  • Nelson Arrieta Jr.
    Key Cast
    "Devin"
    The Family Business, Waking Up Dead, Every Little Moment
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Dark Comedy, Comedy, Suspense, Drama, Dramaedy
  • Runtime:
    12 minutes 9 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 22, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Walid Chaya

Walid Chaya is a director, actor and writer based in Los Angeles. Walid hosts the “Lights Camera Conversation” podcast, available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, or your preferred podcast platform. He can be seen in many popular television shows & films, while also working behind-the-scenes.

Walid is known for appearing on NBC’s ‘Blacklist: Redemption,’ CBS’ ‘Madam Secretary,’ and Hulu’s ‘The Looming Tower,’ to name a few. He wrote, directed, and starred in his breakout film, "Driving Ms. Saudi," winning "Best Comedy Short" at Dubai's WOW Mid-East Film Fair and received global acclaim, with a special presentation at the World Expo.

“Moonlit Wings,” the production company founded by Walid, began in his hometown in the greater DC area and now also thrives in Hollywood, voted 'Best Arts Programs' by Washington Family Magazine readers, with new projects constantly in development.

As the visionary behind the acting school "Studio For Performing Arts LA," Walid helps jumpstart actors' careers with programs led by him and industry VIPs, both in Los Angeles and online. The school's dedication to diversity earned it the 'Best Special Event' BroadwayWorld Award, specifically for supporting MENASA performers in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.

Walid is a member of the Stage Directors Choreographer Society and an alumnus of the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony® Awards, SpringBoardNYC program. He was also awarded the “Diversity Scholarship” from Upright Citizens Brigade LA for his work in original content, sketch comedy and improvisation. Born in Lebanon and raised in the USA, Walid speaks both English and Arabic. Additionally, as CEO of 'Broadway in Beirut,' Walid enhances Middle East production value by connecting overseas producers/directors with American production resources.

He earned his B.F.A. in Performance with honors from VCUarts, ranked the #1 public university school of arts by US News & World Report. After college, Walid worked in NYC and DC for several years before relocating to LA.

As a familiar face on TV, film and theatre, and with extensive behind-the-scenes experience, Walid continues to develop exciting multicultural productions. Beyond his creative endeavors, he enjoys playing with his two puppies, collaborating with his sister, singer/songwriter Rawan Chaya, and savoring quality time with family and friends over Lebanese food, travel, and entertainment.

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Director Statement

'Darn It Darla' is more than a comedy—it’s a conversation starter. The film explores issues that resonate today: the toxic grip of conservatorships, the fight for fair representation of women in Hollywood, and the systemic abuse that strips artists of their autonomy.

Given its themes, 'Darn It Darla' would be a powerful addition to a short film block or as an opening short before a feature with a similar focus. This would set the stage for important discussions about the industry's exploitation of artists and the urgent need for reform. Myself, along with several cast and crew members, would be available for Q&A sessions and interactive events at your festival to dive deeper into these conversations.

The film draws parallels to real-world movements like #FreeBritney and the exploitation of figures such as Lindsay Lohan and Amanda Bynes. It serves as a call for change, urging the industry to empower artists, particularly women, to reclaim their autonomy and pursue meaningful work.

I’m proud to bring this story to life as part of my mission to spark change in the entertainment industry. Through Naveen’s journey, 'Darn It Darla' aims to foster discussions on representation, resilience, and the critical need to protect creative freedom and personal rights.

As a filmmaker, my goal is to entertain while shedding light on these difficult topics with sharp humor and wit. My previous short, "Driving Ms. Saudi" focused on the #women2drive movement, based on real events to critical acclaim. I hope this film also resonates with audiences, offering a reflection of the industry's flaws and a call for a more equitable future.